Backfire Mancast Episode 45: Does Cartridge Matter?

This expert analysis, drawing on extensive hunting experience and detailed ballistic data, debunks myths surrounding the 6.5 PRC. It provides a data-driven comparison against popular cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and .30-06, highlighting the 6.5 PRC's superior energy, flat trajectory, and effective long-range performance. The guide also covers technical specifications, terminal ballistics, and practical advice for hunting large game, emphasizing shot placement and appropriate bullet selection.

This video from Ballistics Lab compares the terminal performance of Hornady's 147-grain ELD-M (Match) and ELD-X (Hunting) bullets in 6.5 Creedmoor fired through ballistic gel after impacting wood. The ELD-M showed rapid expansion and significant tissue damage, while the ELD-X created a larger wound channel but deviated from its path. The presenter suggests both can be effective for deer hunting if the hunter understands their specific performance characteristics.

This discussion with Seth Swerzik of Hornady delves into selecting the right cartridges and bullet construction for both NRL Hunter competitions and various hunting scenarios. Key takeaways include the versatility of the 6.5 Creedmoor for dual-purpose use, the importance of bullet construction for terminal performance on larger game, and the foundational role of shot placement. The conversation also emphasizes practical hunting advice, advocating for proficiency with essential gear like sandbags and tripods over an overabundance of equipment.

The video discusses the continued relevance of the 30-06 Springfield cartridge for hunting. While acknowledging newer cartridges, the speaker asserts that 30-06 remains highly effective for most North American big game, including moose and grizzly bears, with appropriate bullet selection. The discussion highlights that while newer rounds may offer marginal ballistic advantages, the 30-06's versatility and proven performance make it a 'king' in many hunting scenarios.

This video debunks the myth that solid copper bullets require extremely high velocities for effective hunting performance. Through ballistics gel testing and analysis of 7 PRC loads using Barnes TTSX and LRX bullets, Gavin Gear demonstrates excellent expansion and weight retention across a wide velocity range, including lower velocities equivalent to longer ranges. The testing highlights the versatility and effectiveness of modern monolithic copper projectiles for various hunting scenarios and legal requirements.

This video provides an expert field test of Black Hills Ammunition's 130gr Dual Performance 6.5 Creedmoor rounds, featuring a Lehigh Defense monolithic copper bullet. Kevin Jarnagin of Gun Talk Media demonstrates its effectiveness on deer at both 100 and 300 yards, highlighting its dual performance characteristics: petal separation for wide wound channels and a deep-penetrating shank. The analysis includes ballistic gel testing and real-world hunting results, concluding it's a reliable hunting round.

This video from Ballistics Lab presents a comprehensive list of 36 'manly' hobbies for men, covering a wide spectrum from traditional outdoor pursuits like fishing and hunting to modern interests such as Raspberry Pi projects and videography. The hosts, with evident personal experience and enthusiasm, offer insights into the costs, equipment, and general appeal of each activity. The content aims to inspire viewers to explore new interests and engage in fulfilling pastimes.

This episode of the Backfire Accuracy Challenge pits a factory Tikka T3x against custom builds at ranges up to 1,000 yards. Matt's Tikka, upgraded with an MDT chassis and Nightforce scope, won the competition with 15 points, demonstrating the potential of a factory action. Competitors faced challenges with target acquisition and ballistic data at longer distances, highlighting the importance of precise setup and shooter skill.

This guide details the proper usage of the Axil GS Extreme 2.0 electronic earbuds for shooting. It emphasizes the importance of deep insertion, powering on before use, and critically, selecting the correct ear tips (foam for shooting) to ensure adequate hearing protection. The review highlights the comfort and performance of these earbuds, making them a primary choice for range activities.

This guide, drawing from an expert assessment by Jim from Backfire, details the features and use cases of three MDT bipods: the budget-friendly Oryx for hunting, the versatile GRND Pod for general shooting, and the premium Ckye-Pod for competition. It also provides a crucial overview of firearm mounting systems like Sling Swivel Studs, Arca, Picatinny, and M-LOK, with specific recommendations for magnum calibers.